RUGBY EUROPE UNDER 18 CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER PORTUGAL AMONG THE ELITE

31/10/2014 - 30/11/2014

Portugal Under 18 scored a resounding 37- 10 victory over Russia on 31 October at the Honour Stadium Jamor in Lisbon tonight, securing their place in the Elite Division of the Under 18 European Championships in Toulouse next March.

With all to play for in this deciding match, Portugal led at the half time break thanks to a try from centre Vasco Ribeiro, converted by wing Frederico Filipe. Filipe added a penalty to make the score 10-0 at half time.

Russia took control after the break and were rewarded for some good forward play when flanker Denis Denis Mashkin bundled over form close range. Fly Half Gleb Farkov added the extras to level the scores at 10-10.

Thereafter, outstanding Portugese defence and ruthless exploitation of Russian errors saw the hosts race clear. After a try from Number 8 Jose Cabral restored the lead, the outstanding Ribeiro had the partisan crowd on its feet with an outstanding individual effort. Picking up the ball up in his own half he raced clear on the right wing darting between the last two Russian defenders to dot down under the posts.

With time up, Portugal decided to tap a penalty on half way for one last attack. Moving right the ball travelled through several pairs of hands before they burst through the defence with a great offload to replacement Xavier to cap off an outstanding second half performance.

Portugal join Georgia and the 6 Nations Unions in Toulouse next year and will hope to repeat tonights form as they move up a level in class.
For tonight however, they can reflect on a job very well done.